Brand new Scorpio S10 SUV features latest-generation technology

Mahindra South Africa has launched a completely redesigned Scorpio S10 SUV. The newcomer features an all-new platform, a thoroughly modern look with dual projector headlights and LED daytime running lights, and an extensive list of advanced technologies.

The Scorpio S10 SUV is powered by Mahindra’s highly regarded mHawk 2,2-litre turbodiesel engine, linked to a new, slick-shifting five-speed manual gearbox.

The interior represents a huge leap forward, featuring a series of advanced features that include a six-inch touchscreen display, integrated satellite navigation, and Intellipark reverse assistance.

The interior execution continues the new Scorpio’s contemporary theme with a dual-shaded dashboard and smart, blue-grey upholstery. A cutting-edge instrument cluster features a three-dimensional display, and includes a comprehensive information readout.

“Following on the launch of the new-generation XUV500 sport utility vehicle last year, we’re proud to introduce the all-new, thoroughly re-engineered, equally advanced Scorpio S10 SUV to the SA market,” says Sanjoy Gupta, chief executive officer of Mahindra SA.

“The Scorpio has always represented an appealing mix of capability and value, but this latest model raises the bar significantly in every respect. Everything, from the contemporary appearance to the sophisticated interior and the under-the-skin engineering, has been re-engineered to an entirely higher standard,”

Gupta adds that value remains a core element of the Scorpio S10 SUV, despite the substantially improved package.

“With pricing starting below R285 000 for the 4×2 model and just under R300 000 for the 4×4 derivative, the Scorpio continues to represent exceptional value for money – a key aspect against a gloomy economic backdrop. We are convinced that the Scorpio S10 SUV will further entrench Mahindra’s growing status as significant player in the SA automotive sector.”

HEAD-TURNING EXTERIOR

The new-generation Mahindra Scorpio S10 SUV features a head-turning, thoroughly modern appearance, with more than a touch of aggression to suit its robust character and all-terrain capability.

The front view is bold and assertive, with a sculpted execution that links the prominent, chrome-accented grille to the eye-catching, dual projector-style headlights. The headlights are fitted with curved LED daytime running lights, and advanced static bending technology for illumination in bends.

A striking bonnet scoop feeds air to the engine’s intercooler for optimised performance, while silver-accented bezels on either side provide a home for the indicator repeaters, and confirm the presence of the mHawk engine under the bonnet.

Fog lamps are recessed into the lower, integrated bumper, while a silver-finished scuff plate underscores the Scorpio’s tough character.

In profile, elements such as the accentuated wheel arch profiles, the side cladding, roof rails finished in contrasting black, and side steps are further proof of the new Scorpio’s go-anywhere intentions, as are the 17-inch alloy wheels shod with all-terrain rubber.

The rear features bold LED tail light clusters, an integrated roof spoiler with LED brake light , and a tailgate that opens to bumper level, while the rear bumper features a neatly integrated design and is colour-coded. The rear screen is masked in contrasting black for further visual interest.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

The new Mahindra Scorpio S10 SUV isn’t just a crowd-puller in styling terms: it also features a raft of advanced technologies. Arguably the most visible expression of the newcomer’s sophistication is the centrally mounted six-inch touch-screen display, which provides an intuitive interface with the Scorpio’s infotainment system.

The full-colour touch screen provides the gateway to a host of features and functions, including integrated satellite navigation, CD and DVD playback, as well as USB and auxiliary inputs. The screen also shows key vehicle information at the push of a button.

The new Scorpio employs a voice-based warning system to provide audible alerts when a door is left ajar, a seat belt is not utilised, brake fluid level is low or the fuel tank’s reserve is reached.

In addition, the new Scorpio S10 SUV features sensor-activated automatic headlights and windscreen wipers, while a sophisticated tyre pressure monitoring system provides real-time information on the exact tyre pressure in each tyre. The system provides a warning if a tyre starts losing pressure.

The Scorpio’s climate control system features fully automatic temperature control without the need to adjust temperature settings or fan speeds. An intelligent parking system dubbed Intellipark employs four rear bumper-mounted sensors that alert the driver about obstacles when reversing.

THE INTERIOR: PLUSH AND SAFE

The interior of the new Mahindra Scorpio S10 SUV mixes space and versatility to luxury, comprehensive equipment levels and more than a touch of class.

The cabin features new blue/grey upholstery and a two-tone dashboard with dark upper surfaces, while chrome-accented air-conditioning vents emphasise an overall air of style and quality.

The futuristic instrument cluster boasts an innovative 3D effect design with eye-catching light blue backlighting. In addition to a speedometer and rev counter, the cluster’s digital readout can display a variety of vehicle information, including a trip meter, odometer, gear position, fuel level and engine temperature.

A new, sporty multifunction steering wheel features switchgear for the cruise control and the audio system, allowing drivers to operate these without having to take their hands off the wheel. A new, ergonomically shaped centre console is provided, as are strategically placed bottle and cup holders.

Standard equipment levels are comprehensive and include a height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-adjustable steering, front seat arm rests, electrically operated windows and exterior mirrors, 12V charging points, remote central locking, and a remote fuel filler flap.

The new Scorpio S10 SUV is available as an eight-seater featuring two bucket seats upfront, centre three-seater bench with 60/40 split and fore and aft slide adjustment, and a rear bench that can also seat three and that is removable to free up more packing space.

Dual front airbags are standard, as are ABS anti-lock brakes with EBD, and panic brake warning flashers. All models feature a collapsible steering column, crash protection crumple zones, side impact protection bars, digital engine immobiliser and anti-theft alarm system.

THE DRIVETRAIN: POWERFUL AND RESPONSIVE

Mahindra’s highly regarded mHawk 2,2-litre four-cylinder intercooled turbodiesel engine has been retained for the Scorpio S10 SUV.

The advanced 16-valve unit employs common-rail injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and an intercooler to produce a healthy maximum power output of

88 kW at 4 000 r/min, with an accompanying torque peak of 280 Nm between 1 800 and 2 800 r/min.

In the Scorpio, it’s linked to an all-new, slick-shifting five-speed manual gearbox with a ratio set designed to offer both responsive acceleration and refined open-road cruising. The four-wheel drive model gets a low-range transfer case, auto-locking hubs and shift-on-the-fly from rear-wheel drive to four-wheel drive at speeds of up to 100 km/h.

The mHawk turbodiesel engine’s control system uses micro-hybrid technology that switches the engine to standby mode when not in use, for instance when stationary at a red traffic light. This reduces both fuel consumption and emissions, saving fuel costs and benefiting the environment.

Considering that the new Scorpio S10 SUV weighs in at over 2,5 tons gross vehicle mass, the fuel consumption in the combined cycle of 7,2 l/100km is quite remarkable.

CHASSIS: COMPLETE REDESIGN

A completely new suspension ensures significant gains in overall ride refinement and handling. The new Scorpio features an independent front suspension configuration with dual wishbones, coil springs and hydraulic dampers up front, while the rear set-up is a multilink design augmented by coil springs and an anti-roll bar. Suspension travel is 195 mm front and rear.

In the redesign of the chassis, Mahindra’s engineers utilized hydroformed modular ladder frame technology, widened the chassis track for enhanced stability and adopted anti-roll technology for improved ride and handling.

Power steering and a 10,8 metre turning circle allow agile handling and tremendous manoeuvrability, both on-road, and in more challenging off-road conditions. Attractive 6,5 J x 17 alloy wheels shod with 235/65 R17 all-terrain types and a ground clearance of 180 mm further support the new Scorpio S10 SUV off-road credentials.